If your dog is struggling with gastrointestinal problems, finding the right food can be a challenge. Many commercial diets may contain ingredients that can further upset their sensitive stomachs. This is where homemade dog food comes in as a gentle and nutritious solution.
In this informative article, we will learn about easy-to-make, vet-approved recipes that are specially formulated for dogs with digestive issues. These meals will not only provide relief but also ensure that your furry friend gets the nutrients he needs for optimal health.
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How Can Homemade Dog Food Help With Digestive Issues?
Homemade dog food can help with digestive issues by allowing you to control the ingredients, ensuring they are gentle on your dog’s stomach. You can easily eliminate common allergens or irritants and focus on easily digestible food like lean meats, rice, and vegetables.
This customized approach gives your dog better digestion, reduces inflammation, and supports overall gut health.
Easy Homemade Dog Food Recipes For Gastrointestinal Problems
These healthy recipes are gentle on your dog’s digestive system and can help alleviate issues like diarrhea, vomiting, or general upset stomach and the best thing is that all of these recipes are good in taste and suitable for picky eaters.
Boiled Chicken & Rice
This is a mild diet that is often recommended by veterinarians for dogs with gastrointestinal problems. It is easy to digest and is soothing for an upset stomach.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 1\2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
Instructions
- Boil the chicken until fully cooked, then shred it.
- Cook the rice separately, making sure it’s plain (no seasonings or oils).
- Combine the shredded chicken and rice in a 2:1 ratio (two parts rice to one part chicken).
- Let it cool before serving.
Serving Size – You can adjust based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
Turkey & Pumpkin Mash
Turkey is lean and pumpkin is rich in fiber, which helps firm up stools.
Ingredients
- 1\2 lb ground turkey
- 1\4 cup canned pumpkin (plain, not spiced)
Instructions
- Brown the ground turkey in a pan without oil.
- Stir in the canned pumpkin
- Allow it to cool and serve.
Serving Size – Offer small portions to help with digestion.
Sweet Potato & Ground Beef Mix
Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber and vitamins, and ground beef offers protein that’s easy on the stomach.
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato
- 1\2 lb lean ground beef (90% or higher)
Instructions
- Peel and boil the sweet potato until soft.
- Brown the ground beef and drain off any fat.
- Mash the sweet potato and mix it with the ground beef.
- Let it cool before feeding
Serving Size – Small portions are ideal for dogs recovering from gastrointestinal issues.
Fish & Potato Delight
Fish is another protein that’s easy on the stomach and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation.
Ingredients
- 1 white fish fillet (e.g, cod or tilapia)
- 1 medium potato
Instructions
- Boil or steam the fish until fully cooked and flake it.
- Boil the potato and mash it once soft.
- Mix the fish with the mashed potato.
- Let it cool and serve.
Serving Size – Start with smaller portions to see how your dog reacts.
Oatmeal & Chicken
Oats are a gentle fiber source, helping soothe the digestive tract.
Ingredients
- 1\2 cup plain oatmeal
- 1\2 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded.
Instructions
- Cook the oatmeal according to package instructions (no salt or sugar).
- Mix in the shredded chicken.
- Let the mixture cool before serving.
Serving Size – This meal can be given in small amounts to help with digestion.
These are the top 5 homemade dog food recipes that your pet will love and enjoy a healthy stomach.
Ingredients Avoid In Dog Food For GI Problems
When preparing or purchasing dog food for dogs with gastrointestinal (GI) problems, it is important to avoid certain ingredients that can upset their digestive system.
Look here for the ingredients that should not be included in dog food for gastrointestinal problems.
Fatty Meals
High-fat foods can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause pancreatitis or worsen diarrhea.
Avoid – Bacon, fatty beef, pork, lamb, and processed meats like sausages.
Check Out – How to comfort a dog with pancreatitis?
Dairy Products
Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which can lead to gas, diarrhea, or upset stomach.
Avoid – Milk, cheese, yogurt, cream, and butter.
Spices And Seasonings
Spices and seasonings can irritate the GI tract.
Avoid – Garlic, onion, salt, pepper, paprika, and other spices or seasonings commonly used in human food.
Grains (For Sensitive Dogs)
Some dogs may have sensitivities to grains, which can cause bloating or diarrhea.
Avoid – Wheat, corn, and soy. Opt for grain-free or easily digestible grains like rice or oats, if needed.
Artificial Additives & Preservatives
Chemicals and artificial ingredients can be harsh on your dog’s digestive system.
Avoid – Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin.
High-Sugar Foods
Sugary foods can cause an upset stomach and contribute to unhealthy weight gain.
Avoid – Candy, chocolate pastries, and other sugary treats.
Processed Carbohydrates
Highly processed carbs can cause blood sugar spikes and digestive issues.
Avoid – White bread, processed snacks, and pastries.
Conclusion
Hope these recipes help improve your dog’s digestion. Some of these recipes are chicken-free for sensitive stomachs and all of these homemade dog food recipes are suitable for senior dogs and dogs that have very sensitive skin.
Dog owners love the recipes that I shared in my previous article of 25 vet-approved homemade dog food recipes for specific health problems. These 25 recipes are a blend to keep your dog healthy.
Queries
What Are Some Affordable And Easy-To-Prepare Food Options For Dogs?
Affordable and easy-to-prepared dog food options include boiled chicken with rice, scrambled eggs, ground turkey with sweet potatoes, and plain oatmeal. These simple meals are nutritious, gentle on digestion, and budget-friendly. Always serve without seasonings.
What Is An Affordable At-home Recipe For Dog Food That Will Save You Money?
An affordable at-home dog food recipe is boiled chicken mixed with rice and carrots. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and budget-friendly, using basic ingredients that are gentle on your dog’s stomach and readily available.
I’m Dr. Evan Antin, an animal expert and exotic animal veterinarian with a passion for helping pets and their owners thrive. With years of experience working with animals of all kinds, I bring a unique perspective to dog training, offering personalized in-home training sessions that cater to your dog’s specific needs. My goal is to create a strong bond between you and your pet through effective, compassionate techniques. Whether you’re dealing with behavioral issues or simply want to strengthen your dog’s skills, I’m here to help you achieve lasting, positive results.